TRENTON, N.J. - Mercer County will again team up with its partner agencies to offer free air conditioners to qualified senior citizens and those with disabilities through the Medi-Cool Program, Mercer County Executive Brian M. Hughes announced today.

With the dog days of summer fast approaching, Hughes said seniors and the disabled should inquire right away to find out if they qualify for this popular program.

“Medi-Cool allows us to provide many disadvantaged people in our community with an air conditioner so they can live comfortably,” said Hughes.

The Medi-Cool program is facilitated by the United Way of Greater Mercer County, Catholic Charities, and Rise, Inc., of Hightstown, via the use of County funding provided by the Office on Aging. Seniors aged 60 and older with a documented health condition and who meet income eligibility requirements can receive a voucher that entitles them to a free air conditioner. Residents 18 years or older who have a disability may also qualify. All applicants must provide: proof of residency, proof of income, prescriptions, and proof of assets. All registrations must be done in person.

Catholic Charities, Trenton and Rise Inc. will screen applicants for eligibility from May 10 to June 3, provide a voucher for an air conditioner, and arrange for clients to pick up the unit at the United Way of Greater Mercer County office at 3131 Princeton Pike, Building 4, Suite 113, Lawrenceville (exit 8A off I-95). United Way will distribute the units only on June 7, 8, and 9 from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

United Way of Greater Mercer County will distribute the air conditioners only to individuals meeting the eligibility criteria. Individuals who have received an air conditioner in the last 3 years are ineligible. The supply is limited, so please apply soon.

For more information on how to register for a unit, please contact: Anna Vasquez, senior case manager of Rise Inc. at (609) 443-4464 or avasquez@rise-community-services.org. Or, contact Mercy Anane, program coordinator of Catholic Charities, at (609) 394-8847 ext. 103 or manane@cctrenton.org.